I was going to make the same point about using flat paint, so you will be able to spot shiny old/fluid leaks easier. Also, if you put clear over the paint, it will make it shiny regardless if you use flat, semi-gloss, ect.

 

Yeah, thanks bob. I found that out myself before jumping back on the forum to see what everyone suggested.

I decided to go with a semi-gloss black with a clear coat.

I think that it looks great, except it is quite shiny due to the clear coat finish. I guess I will just have to keep an eye out for red spots under the truck from now on to check for leaks.

 

Well, I have the pan all finished. I figured I would post some pics to see what people think and so they could get an opinion if they decide to do the same thing.

I probably went a little overboard being that this is on the bottom side of the truck and I will probably be the only one that sees it other than Michigan weather! Now I just need to avoid dirt roads to try and have it hold up good as possible.

It came out a lot glossier than I was shooting for, but all around, I like the way it turned out.

Oh yeah, and before anyone asks, I DID NOT paint the inside of the pan. Lord knows I wouldn't want that stuff chipping off and getting into my internal parts.

 

I have the HELP! drain plug also, and although it does not leak at this time, I don't like the rubber oring design. I have a B&M plug to put in it next time I do the trans filter. The B&M is a pipe thread instead of the oring.

 

Yeah, a pipe thread would be great that way it just seals as you tighten. But the problem I had wasn't with the rubber O-ring. It was with the nylon washers on the plug itself. I accidentally cracked one when I put it on and then it still leaked after I replaced it.

Therefore I made the decision to just deal with the 30# pan when I do flushes and just get a new one without a plug.